As the moon waxes from new to full this week, we have the waxing quarter moon at 29° of Leo on Wednesday, May 19th at 3:29 p.m. A waxing quarter moon brings conflict to light, highlighting unforeseen obstacles and curveballs while inviting a course-correction. Since this one happens at the last degree of Leo, a sign known for a bit of flair and drama, we can expect it to bring with it a few surprises.
The potency of this waxing quarter moon in Leo will likely be amplified even more, given that next week we have the first eclipse of the year, a total lunar eclipse in Sagittarius, which is the only total lunar eclipse in 2021. Because of this, it’s imperative to see the truth for it is (not what you want it to be) and fully accept it.
Eclipses act as wild cards, sweeping away what’s no longer there and clearing the decks for new realities to emerge. And aside from the upcoming full moon being a total lunar eclipse, it’s a supermoon, too, meaning we’ll experience the double whammy of a full moon happening close to the moon’s south node while the moon is particularly near Earth. This rare lunar event will serve as a gateway to a new life chapter. After all, a south node eclipse in Sagittarius liberates us from the past by exposing aspects of life no longer aligned with our truth.
Given that Mercury is also in his retrograde shadow (Mercury stations retrograde on the 29th), now’s not the time to avoid, evade, or deny reality. Instead, pay close attention to the nuances as well as the hard facts. Doing so now, in advance of the eclipse and Mercury’s station, will provide clues to what next week may bring, as well as the cosmic curriculum for Mercury’s retrograde journey.
Fortunately, the week ahead brings strengthening aspects, too. On Monday, the sun in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn. This Earth trine fortifies strength and resilience and the ability to stay grounded and connected to your courage. Lean into this. Nourish and nurture yourself. Connect to your body and heart, and get honest with yourself about your needs, wants, and desires.
On Tuesday, Venus in Gemini sextiles Chiron in Aries, illuminating healing and the ability to alchemize pain into wisdom. This aspect may prove to be especially helpful with post-lockdown life emerging and socializing back on the table; many may struggle to find a rhythm after months of isolation. Come Wednesday, Venus perfects her trine to Saturn in Aquarius, and this promising connection helps you find a new sense of purpose—take time to digest it.
Thursday, the sun moves into Gemini, amplifying the call to socialize even more, so take a nod from Venus, and allow yourself to process your feelings so you can pace yourself accordingly. Otherwise, you may find yourself heading toward burnout and moving further away from the embodied wisdom cultivated during quarantine.
Gemini is a sign of versatility that emphasizes community and connection. Mercury rules Gemini, and his retrograde journey will likely make this Gemini season notable. So back up your computer, double-check your calendar, and stay discriminate regarding what you say yes to. Underpromise as much as you can, so when you over-deliver, you are rewarded.
Setting appropriate expectations is incredibly important. To that point, on Friday, the sun in Gemini squares Jupiter in Pisces. This mutable square challenges us to get out of our heads and into our hearts. Then on Saturday, Mercury in Gemini squares Neptune in Pisces. These aspects combined will likely feel confusing. Should you find yourself in a quandary, remember: mindfulness is potent medicine. Take life one day at a time, and surrender control. Come Sunday the 22nd, as the momentum of the upcoming eclipse builds, Saturn stations retrograde. Soon enough, we will revisit lessons. But for now, settle into your own heart and lean on your spiritual practices.
Jennifer Racioppi is the creator of Lunar Logic—a philosophy that integrates the deep wisdom of both science and spirituality, and blends her expertise in astrology, positive psychology, and women’s health—which she uses to coach high-achieving female entrepreneurs to reach their next level of success. Order her book, Cosmic Health, here.
Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Got it, you've been added to our email list.
